Includes bibliographical references (p. 218-219) and index.

Advertisements for utopia -- Resistance meme.

"Rick Poynor exposes the ambivalent reality beneath the seductive surface of contemporary visual culture. Ranging across design, advertising, photography, publishing and art, these incisive, entertaining essays challenge received wisdom, dismiss sacred cows and pose challenging questions about key issues and trends -- from graphic memes and the poverty of 'cool' to culture jamming, designer sex and death, and the pleasure of imperfection."--Publisher.